Power distribution and biasing in RF switch-mode power amplifiers

Abstract

Methods of and apparatus for distributing power and biasing RF PAs. A power distribution network includes a pre-final amplifier stage power distribution network and a final amplifier stage power distribution network. The pre-final amplifier stage power distribution network includes one or more pre-final amplifier stage power distribution branches, which may be configured to distribute power from one or more pre-final amplifier power supplies to one or more pre-final amplifier stages. Each pre-final amplifier stage power distribution branch comprises a π C-R-C network coupled to an inductive load. A final amplifier stage power distribution network is configured to distribute power from a final amplifier stage power supply to a final stage of the amplifier circuit.

1. A method of distributing power to a multi-stage amplifier, comprising:
 through a first power distribution branch, distributing a first power supply voltage to a first amplifier stage of a multi-stage amplifier circuit; 
 through a second power distribution branch, distributing said first power supply voltage to a second amplifier stage of said multi-stage amplifier circuit, wherein said second power distribution branch includes a π C-R-C circuit that is unique to the first power distribution branch; and 
 through a third power distribution branch, distributing a second power supply voltage to a third amplifier stage of said multi-stage amplifier circuit. 
 
   
   
     2. The method of  claim 1  wherein either or both the first and second amplifier stages are configured to operate in switch mode. 
   
   
     3. The method of  claim 1  wherein one or more of said plurality of amplifier stages comprises a switch mode amplifier.